Nigerians are urging electoral and constitutional reforms to enhance governance ahead of the next general election. Participants at an ALG-hosted webinar indicated that the 1999 constitution fails to provide accountability and address socio-economic challenges. Key figures, including Femi Falana, stressed the critical nature of these reforms for the nation’s future, particularly at the grassroots level.
Nigerian citizens are increasingly calling for substantial electoral and constitutional reforms ahead of the upcoming elections to establish effective governance, particularly at the local level. During a recent webinar hosted by the African Leadership Group (ALG), participants emphasized the inadequacies of the 1999 constitution in addressing the pervasive poverty and socio-economic issues plaguing the nation. They argued that the current framework fails to ensure accountable leadership and the responsible use of national resources.
Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana highlighted the glaring contradiction in Nigeria’s wealth distribution, lamenting that although the country possesses vast resources, a small elite continue to exploit these. He criticized the economic strategies employed by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, asserting that they have exacerbated poverty among citizens instead of alleviating it. Falana urged for increased accountability from leaders at both federal and state levels to combat the exploitation of the electoral process by political elites.
Other participants, such as Funke Awolowo, underscored the necessity of engaging with the everyday concerns of ordinary citizens, advocating for a dialogue between the elites and the populace regarding national issues. Furthermore, Tony Nnadi proposed that the existing 1999 constitution is inherently flawed and proposed that fundamental changes are essential to address the country’s socio-economic challenges effectively.
Adenike Grange emphasized the importance of including grassroots voices in any discussions about the nation’s future, stressing the need to represent those most severely impacted by economic hardships. Akin Fapohun considered the ongoing constitutional amending process as vital for the country’s future, recommending a postponement of the 2027 elections until this process is complete.
Oluyinka Oyeniji echoed these sentiments, insisting on the need for more proactive engagement with members of the National Assembly to ensure a comprehensive amendment of the 1999 constitution. Participants collectively agreed that proceeding to the elections under the current constitutional framework would be imprudent.
In summary, the calls for constitutional and electoral reforms in Nigeria are rooted in a collective desire for improved governance and socioeconomic conditions. Advocates highlight the 1999 constitution’s shortcomings and insist that significant changes are crucial for addressing the nation’s inequalities and promoting accountability among leaders. The consensus emphasizes the need for grassroots participation in shaping the future and delaying elections until necessary reforms are realized.
Original Source: businessday.ng
